An extraordinary celestial phenomenon lit up the skies over Wales recently, leaving photographers and stargazers in awe. What was initially thought to be a stunning “red aurora” turned out to be something even more exceptional – a rare occurrence known as a ‘Stable Auroral Red’ arc. The unexpected event was captured by photographer Tony Harnett, who had set out to photograph the Northern Lights in Snowdonia’s Eryri. Instead, he was greeted with a breathtaking red arc intertwined with the Orion constellation, a sight that is truly once-in-a-lifetime. Upon sharing his photograph online, it was revealed that this spectacle was not a typical aurora but a unique SAR arc.
Tony shared his amazement, saying, “I took the photo last Wednesday (January 1) and I’ve since been told it’s a SAR arc. It wasn’t something I’d ever heard of before. I can’t believe my luck – it really was a once in a life-time shot!” This rare sighting was not limited to Tony alone; others in north Wales also witnessed this rare phenomenon. Jonny B Photography, for example, captured a panoramic view of the SAR arc over Llanddona Beach, Anglesey, in a series of 17 images showcasing the majestic stretch of red light across the sky. Unlike traditional auroras caused by interactions between space particles and the Earth’s atmosphere, SAR arcs are believed to be the result of extreme thermal and kinetic energy in the atmosphere.
The uniqueness of SAR arcs lies in their dimness, making them challenging to observe with the naked eye. Discovered only in 1956, these arcs are a visual representation of heat energy escaping from Earth’s ring current system. While typically faint, during intense geomagnetic storms, brighter SAR arcs can manifest, providing a captivating display that can last for several hours. On a subsequent night, stargazers were hopeful for another opportunity to witness the Northern Lights and potentially another SAR arc. Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions, including snow and ice warnings from the Met Office, obscured the skies, preventing enthusiasts from enjoying the spectacle.
The new year brought not only fireworks but also dazzling displays of auroras worldwide, sparked by a series of solar flares from the sun’s surface towards the Earth. With the sun currently at its Solar Maximum – the peak of its 11-year cycle – experts anticipate an increase in aurora events, even at lower latitudes. As solar activity continues and more flares erupt, sky-watchers remain poised to catch glimpses of these mesmerising natural light shows. The WalesOnline community has recently launched a breaking news and top stories WhatsApp group, offering a convenient way to stay updated on the latest events and developments in Wales. For those eager to connect and receive regular updates, joining this community is just a click away.
As the year unfolds, the skies promise to continue delivering awe-inspiring celestial displays, inviting both seasoned photographers and casual observers to marvel at the beauty of the universe. With advancements in technology and increased awareness among enthusiasts, the chance of witnessing rare phenomena like SAR arcs becomes even more accessible. Stay tuned for more updates on celestial events and be prepared to witness the wonder of the universe in all its splendour.